Ralph Macchio

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Ralph Macchio

Date Of Birth

Biography

Ralph Macchio became a household name thanks to his role as Daniel LaRusso in the Karate Kid film franchise. This Italian American actor got his start, however, by appearing in commercials before making his debut in the 1980 film Up the Academy. Shortly after, he landed the role of Jeremy Andretti on the TV series Eight is Enough. This paved the way for opportunities in the big screen.

After starring as The Karate Kid in 1984, Macchio gained world wide fame. The movie spawned two more successful installments. His other notable credits include Crossroads, My Cousin Vinny, and Naked in New York.

Though Macchio's popularity diminished in the coming years, he found steady work in both the big and small screen. He played Archie Rodriguez on the TV series Ugly Betty, made an appearance on Entourage and Law & Order: Criminal Intent, and graced movies like A Good Night to Die, Rosencrantz and Guildenstern Are Undead, and Beer League. In 2011, he was cast as one of the contestants on Dancing with the Stars season 12.